Choose the Perfect Wall Oven and Microwave for Your Kitchen Remodel
Upgrading your kitchen with a wall oven and microwave can take your cooking experience to the next level. With the right appliances and placement, you can enjoy more oven capacity, faster cooking, and better ergonomics.
When remodeling your kitchen, here's how to choose the perfect wall oven and microwave combination.
Compare Single vs Double Wall Ovens
Single wall ovens provide one large capacity oven, while double wall ovens include two ovens in a stacked configuration. Double ovens give you more overall capacity, allowing you to cook multiple dishes at different temperatures.
However, double ovens do take up more space. You need about 25-30 inches of width and 48-50 inches of height for a standard double wall oven. Make sure you have enough cabinet and wall space before choosing this option.
Electric vs Gas Wall Ovens
Wall ovens are available in either electric or gas models. Electric ovens tend to heat more evenly and are simpler to install. Gas ovens can give a more intense heat for tasks like pizza baking, but do require an existing gas line.
Consider your cooking needs and fuel supply when choosing between electric and gas. Electric tends to be more popular for wall ovens.
Include Convection Cooking
Many modern wall ovens include convection cooking modes that use fans to circulate hot air. Convection baking can cook foods up to 25% faster than conventional ovens.
Other cooking modes like air fry, dehydrate, and bread proofing also enhance your cooking flexibility. Prioritize ovens with convection and expanded cooking modes.
Choose Countertop or Built-In Microwaves
Countertop and built-in are the main microwave options for your kitchen remodel. Countertop models sit on your counter or another surface. They're typically more budget-friendly and easier to replace.
Integrated, built-in microwaves install seamlessly into your cabinetry and kitchen design. This gives a streamlined, upscale look. Built-in microwaves do cost more and are more complex to install.
Determine the Right Microwave Power
Standard microwave power levels range from 500 to 1200 watts. Higher wattage microwaves can heat food faster, while lower wattages work well for gentle cooking tasks.
Analyze your cooking habits to choose the right power level. Reheating leftovers only needs 500-700 watts. Full cooking may demand 1000+ watts for decent speed.
Allow Enough Space
When selecting a countertop microwave, make sure you have at least 15-20 inches of width, height, and depth for the appliance. Measure your space prior to purchasing.
Built-in microwaves can be 24-30 inches wide. Check cabinet cut-out dimensions to ensure a proper fit.
Optimize Wall Oven and Microwave Placement
Proper placement is key for kitchen ergonomics and workflow. Wall ovens should be safely reachable at waist to shoulder height. Position your microwave for easy access based on your height.
Having the microwave near the wall oven can facilitate easily moving food between the appliances. Group appliances according to cooking sequences.
Account for Needed Cabinet Space
Wall ovens need properly sized cabinet cut-outs for installation. Double ovens generally require two stacked, standard-depth cabinets. Ensure adequate room when planning cabinetry.
For built-in microwaves, check cut-out dimensions. Placement near the oven provides convenience, but may limit cabinet space.
Bring in the Professionals
We strongly recommend having wall ovens and built-in microwaves professionally installed for proper ventilation, electrical setup, and secure mounting.
Follow all manufacturer instructions for cabinet cut-outs, wiring requirements, and installation steps. This optimizes safety and appliance functionality.
Select Reliable Brands and Models
Research oven and microwave brands to choose reliable, long-lasting appliances. We recommend GE, JennAir, Bosch, Thermador, and Miele wall ovens. Quality brands for microwaves include GE, LG, Samsung, and Whirlpool.
Also compare appliance features, dimensions, modes, and warranty terms. Choose models optimized for your priorities like capacity, speed, and budget.
By investing in well-designed wall ovens and microwaves, properly placed, you can make your kitchen remodel even more rewarding. With better tools, you'll find cooking and baking even more enjoyable.
Focus on optimizing workflow, capacity, and quality. With smart planning, you can install appliances that maximize convenience and perfectly fit your cooking lifestyle.